The Car and Truck Fleet and Leasing Management Magazine

Safety Tip: Responding to the TPMS Light

Are you sure all your fleet drivers respond quickly to the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) warning light whenever it illuminates?

The TPMS light comes on to alert the driver that at least one of the tires is underinflated — a condition that can lead to tire failure. According to Bridgestone, underinflated tires can compromise vehicle handling, overall tire performance, and load-carrying capacity. A tire that’s properly inflated, on the other hand, will reduce both tread movement and rolling resistance. Properly inflated tires also increase water dispersion on wet roads to help prevent hydroplaning.

All tires need to be properly inflated to ensure both vehicle safety and fuel efficiency. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that drivers check tire pressure with a gauge once a month. The TPMS light doesn’t replace this critical piece of preventative maintenance. But all drivers must recognize that when the TPMS light illuminates, they need to check the tire pressures with a gauge and add air until the pressure readings meet the manufacturer specifications.

To watch a video about how to check tire pressure and reset the TPMS light, click on the photo or link below the headline.